Assassin’s Creed Shadows is one of the most expansive entries in the franchise to date, featuring a robust progression system that complements its vast scale. Here’s a detailed look at the max levels and how the level cap functions within the game.
What Is the Max XP Level in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a revamped progression system that combines traditional XP-based advancement with a new Knowledge Rank system. XP progression in the game allows players to unlock higher-tier weapons, armor, and gear, as well as enhance the base stats of protagonists Naoe and Yasuke.
To fully explore all the Japanese provinces on the game's map, players need to reach Level 35. However, the XP grind extends well beyond this point. While Ubisoft initially suggested a Level Cap of 40, players can actually progress up to Level 60. It's anticipated that this cap may increase further with the upcoming Claws of Awaji expansion for Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
What Is the Max Knowledge Rank in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
The Knowledge Rank system in Assassin’s Creed Shadows represents a significant evolution in the franchise's approach to progression. Separate from the XP leveling, Knowledge Ranks are advanced by accumulating Knowledge Points through various open-world activities focused on mindfulness and training. As players advance through the Knowledge Ranks, new skills become available for Naoe and Yasuke, though these skills must be unlocked using Mastery Points.
To access all available skills, players must reach Knowledge Rank 6. However, this is not the end of the Knowledge Rank progression. Upon reaching this rank, players unlock a new Knowledge tree, offering additional passive skills that can be tailored to their preferred play style.
Related: Assassin’s Creed Shadows Trophy List (All 55 Trophies)
Is There a Cap for Mastery in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Mastery represents the third pillar of progression in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, functioning similarly to skill points. Mastery Points are essential for unlocking new skills within the six Mastery trees available for each protagonist. The cost in Mastery Points varies among skills.
Given the extensive range of skills and the variety of activities that yield Mastery Points, players have ample opportunities to earn what they need. While it's theoretically possible to reach a limit on Mastery Points, achieving this would require completing a vast array of in-game activities. The Claws of Awaji expansion, set to launch later in 2025, is expected to introduce new ways to earn Mastery Points.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have Level Scaling?
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, each province of Japan is assigned a specific level. The highest initial level requirement is for the Kii province, set at Level 35. As players advance and increase their XP level, the difficulty and enemy levels in certain regions will scale to match.
However, there's a cap on how high this scaling can go. From Level 42 onward, the recommended level for each province remains two levels below the player's current XP level. This ensures that the game maintains a challenging yet balanced combat experience in the late game, rewarding players who invest significant time into the game.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
